I doubt that these particular works have ever been recorded with such astonishing command as by the Hagen Quartet. The players' corporate intonation is almost impossibly true, enhanced by absolute control and matching of vibrato . . . Rhythmic unanimity is impeccable, phrasing is immaculate, balancing meticulous in its lead-voicing. Nothing is remotely forced . . . A disc whose rare brand of perfectionism is rather special.

The Hagen Quartet, whose recordings pass through the catalog all too swiftly, is a wonderful ensemble. Their playing is technically immaculate, musically acute, and tonally lovely. Like all great ensembles and interpreters, they have the ability to find the individual sound-world that each work occupies and bring it to life . . . Performance and sound are lovely, and the notes are more than adequate. This is outstanding; you should buy it before it goes away.

Record Review /
Chakwin,
American Record Guide / 01. April 2005

. . . the Hagen's tread carefully in the land of good behavior. This is a modern quartet style that would not have been possible without the advances of the historical-performance movement, an essentially restrained style that allows the vibrato to be used in a reined-in way, always selectively and for expressive puposes, that values a shimmering sound surface, and that keeps individual members constantly deferential to the others. The Hagens like to play quietly, and they do so to magical effect.